I credit the teaching of yoga for much that I have learned about the practice and myself. I also credit Aadil Palkhivala for teaching me how to develop that art through his consistent message of "teaching with joy":
Our work is not merely to discover the expansiveness of hamstrings, but also to discover the expansiveness of heart. It is not merely to do a handstand without support, but also to do work such that, when the time comes, we are strong enough to stand up for ourselves, even when unsupported. It is not to hold a headstand alone in the center of the room, but to joyously uphold what we believe, even when we stand alone.(1)
And so, I seek balance of heart and mind just as I seek balance within my physical form. I envision a fulcrum serving as my inner, higher power. I might flail off to one end and without judgement or reprimand, it will guide me back toward the center. In some aspects of my life, I've stayed very close to the core, but in others it has been an active see-saw ride. The logo I created for Kona Yoga represents that fulcrum, that center, and my reminder.
Many of my lessons in balance were learned because, and in spite of, the fear of falling. Until one day, when I was quietly enjoying a stable moment, my "fulcrum" asked, "Have you ever noticed that your see-saw is less than a foot off the ground and have you ever considered taking me wherever you go?"
I give lessons in balance* and I take lessons in balance. Life is much more stable now, with less fear and less effort.
"Forever", oil on canvas, by Eric Zener.
(1) from Fire of Love, Teaching the Essence of Yoga by Aadil Palkhivala, The Innerworks Co., (2006).
*Lessons in Balance include private yoga sessions, bodywork treatments, and wholistic health guidance. A page with information will appear soon at konayoga.com and a separate site, LessonsInBalance.com is now being developed. Aloha!